Effective Nuclear Charge Calculator
Calculate the effective nuclear charge (Zeff) acting on valence electrons using Slater's Rules.
Calculation Parameters
Specify your chemical inputs.
Calculated Result
Expert Tip
Double check molecular weights and balance equations to ensure stoichiometric ratios are correct.
How this Calculator Works
This calculator determines the net positive charge experienced by valence electrons in a multi-electron atom. Adjust the inputs using the sliders below:
- Atomic Number (Z): Total number of protons in the nucleus (Range: 1 to 118, Default: 6)
- Shielding Constant (S): The amount of screening by inner electrons (Range: 0 to 118, Default: 2.85)
The results are computed instantly and updated in the results panel on the right.
Formula & Methodology
Where:
- Z_eff: Effective nuclear charge.
- Z: Atomic number (proton count).
- S: Shielding/screening constant (estimated by Slater's Rules).
Step-by-Step Calculation Example
To calculate the effective nuclear charge of Carbon manually, follow these steps:
- Identify the input parameters. For example:
- Atomic Number (Z) = 6
- Shielding Constant (S) = 2.85
- Apply the formula:
Z_eff = 6 - 2.85 = 3.15
- Verify the calculated value which is updated instantly in the results panel on the right.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is effective nuclear charge (Zeff)? ▼
Zeff is the net positive charge experienced by an electron in a polyelectronic atom, reduced by shielding from inner electrons.
What is the formula for Zeff? ▼
Zeff = Z - S, where Z is atomic number and S is the shielding/screening constant.
How does Zeff change across a period? ▼
Zeff increases from left to right across a period because nuclear charge increases while core electron shielding remains nearly constant.